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Christmas in London: The best things to do for a magical December in London

There is no better time to be in London than during the month of December when the streets come to life in streams of fairy lights, public spaces are taken over by the English take on the traditional European Christmas Market and Christmas carols fill the shops with that special Christmas spirit. This year I travelled to London to soak up the Christmas spirit and see for myself just how magical this city can be at Christmas time. Here are my top picks for everything you should do for a magical Christmas in London!

Winter Wonderland

As the Brit’s version of a traditional European Christmas Market, Winter Wonderland is the most important Christmas activity for any visitor to London in November/December because it truly is a world of wonder. Think pop-up German stalls selling glühwein, rollercoasters, a carousel bar (that rotates, yes) and all the Christmas market food you can imagine: waffles, pretzels, crepes and more. Best of all – it is free to enter!

Harrods

As the world’s most famous department store, Harrods is a London destination in itself (so much so that it has its own designated stop on the double decker bus tour!) The department store truly comes to life over Christmas and if you’re in the market for a gift or two, there is no better place to find everything and get in the Christmas spirit.

Ice Skating at Somerset House

Perhaps the most iconic ice skating rink in all of London is hidden off the main thoroughfare, behind the facade of Somerset House near the Thames River. Be sure to book your tickets in advance (£17) as numbers are capped on the ice and it is often impossible to get a ticket on the day.

Ice Skating at the Natural History Museum

There are a number of ice skating rinks that pop up around the city of London over the month of December but if you were to pick just one, we’d recommend heading over to the Natural History Museum. There is a huge Christmas tree in the centre of the rink as well as the magical backdrop of the museum, making this one of the most scenic spots in London for a skate.

Burlington Arcade

Built in 1819 and located in the heart of Mayfair, the Burlington Arcade is magical any time of year but none more so than the month of December when it is adorned in glamorous Christmas decorations. The arcade features a range of local artisans, British brands and International designers.

Shopping on Regent and Oxford Street

If it is Christmas gifts you are after then look no further than Regent and Oxford Street, both of which come to life over the month of December in a stream of Christmas lights, carols, and decorations galore.

Treats to Eat from Fortnum & Mason

If you’re looking for Christmas shortbread, jams, chocolates and anything sweet then head straight to the iconic Fortnum & Mason in St James’s for a (very) Christmassy shopping experience (and one that will leave you with bags of goodies!)

Dinner in the Great Hall

Imagine all your Christmas dreams coming true: being able to dine in the Hogwarts Great Hall for Christmas (yes, this is not a drill!!!) Bookings are available through the Warner Bros Studio Tour website but beware, they book out fast and sell for a pretty penny!

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Christmas at Kew (Gardens) is a favourite for me. Not in central London (in zone 3/4) but the light show is amazing! And of course all the Christmas Markets.

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9 months ago

FROM THE EDITOR:

Hello, Hola, Bonjour!
My name is Brooke Saward and I have been travelling the world solo for the past seven years. Here you can find my travel inspiration & advice to help plan your own adventures or gain the confidence to travel solo. Thanks for stopping by!